Evidence supporting the use of: Carvacrol
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Carvacrol, a phenolic compound found in oregano oil and thyme, has been studied for its antimicrobial properties, including potential antiviral effects. Laboratory (in vitro) studies demonstrate that carvacrol exhibits activity against several viruses, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), human rotavirus, and norovirus surrogates. The mechanisms proposed include disruption of viral envelopes, inhibition of viral replication, and interference with viral attachment to host cells. However, these findings are primarily from cell culture models and not from human clinical trials.

There is currently a lack of robust human data supporting the use of carvacrol for treating or preventing viral infections. Most of the available evidence comes from preclinical research, and results in animal models are limited. Some traditional medicine systems have used oregano oil (which contains carvacrol) for respiratory or digestive infections, but such uses are not specifically documented for carvacrol alone and are not backed by rigorous scientific validation for viral infections in humans.

In summary, while there is some scientific basis from laboratory studies suggesting antiviral activity of carvacrol, there is insufficient clinical evidence to confirm its efficacy or safety in treating viral infections in humans. Thus, the current scientific evidence is preliminary and rates at 2/5 in terms of support for this use.

More about Carvacrol
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Products containing Carvacrol

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.